A fast-moving wildfire in the Canadian Rockies has devastated the near-deserted town of Jasper, Alberta, prompting 25,000 people to flee. The fire, which roared into the town overnight, caused extensive damage with flames soaring higher than treetops and destroying up to half of the town's structures.
Immediate Response and Evacuation
There were no immediate reports of injuries, thanks to the mass evacuation earlier in the week. Jasper Mayor Richard Ireland expressed deep sorrow in a letter posted on the town’s website, describing the wildfire's impact as beyond comprehension. "The destruction and loss that many of you are facing and feeling is beyond description and comprehension, my deepest sympathies go out to each of you," he said.
Significant Damage and Ongoing Threat
Danielle Smith, the Premier of Alberta, reported that 30% to 50% of Jasper’s structures are potentially damaged or destroyed. "That’s going to be a significant rebuild and significant displacement," she noted, visibly emotional about the devastation in Jasper, a beloved destination for many families in the province.
Jasper is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, kayaking, and biking. It is also home to diverse wildlife such as elk, mountain goats, cougars, lynx, black bears, and grizzly bears.
Community Support and Infrastructure Protection
In a press conference, Smith pledged her government’s support for the community’s rebuilding efforts. Parks Canada officials assured that critical infrastructure, including the hospital, schools, and the wastewater treatment plant, remained protected. However, significant structural damage was concentrated on the west side of town, with some bridges in and around the park also damaged.
Wildfire’s Rapid Spread
The wildfire, driven by gusty winds, advanced rapidly towards Jasper. Alberta Public Safety Minister Mike Ellis highlighted the unprecedented speed and intensity of the fire, which moved approximately 5 kilometers (about 3 miles) in less than 30 minutes with flames estimated to be 100 meters high. "Nobody anticipated the fire to come so fast, so large," Ellis said, emphasizing the challenge faced by firefighters.
Pierre Martel, Director of Fire Management at Parks Canada, described the wildfire as a "monster" due to its rapid growth fueled by lightning, winds, and drought. "There are no tools we have in our toolbox to deal with that at that point. You get out of the way, you retreat," he said.
Safe Evacuation and Federal Assistance
Parks Canada confirmed that approximately 25,000 people were safely evacuated from Jasper and the neighboring Jasper National Park. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the approval of Alberta’s request for federal assistance, including military resources.
Personal Stories and Community Resilience
Residents shared harrowing tales of evacuation and loss. Annelies Lagger, a long-time resident and owner of Austrian Haven B&B, evacuated with her 13 cats and dog. Awaiting news about her home, Lagger expressed uncertainty but remained resilient. "I’m a very tough woman. Whatever happens, I start again even though I’m 82 years old," she said.
Continuing Wildfire Threat
Alberta is experiencing extreme temperatures, exacerbating the wildfire threat. About 176 wildfires are burning across the province, including 54 that are out of control. Alberta Forestry and Parks Minister Todd Loewen attributed many of these fires to lightning, and Alberta Wildfire spokesperson Christie Tucker warned that winds could escalate the danger. Hundreds of firefighters from Australia, Mexico, New Zealand, and South Africa are arriving to assist in the efforts.
Record Wildfire Season
This year has seen a record number of wildfires in Canada, forcing more than 235,000 people to evacuate and sending thick smoke into parts of the U.S., resulting in health advisories and hazy skies.
Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, is considered a national treasure for its striking mountain landscape. The ongoing wildfire underscores the urgent need for effective wildfire management and community resilience in the face of such natural disasters.
Source: APnews
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